Planning A Trip With Lymphedema

If you're like most people you have already planned what you are going to do for your summer vacation. Some people are just going to stay around the house and relax, but most people are going out of town for a few days or for about a week.

For most people, traveling out of town only requires packing the essentials like plenty of clothes, your toothbrush, shoes etc. However, for millions of people suffering from lymphedema those are not the only things you need to prepare for before traveling.

According to the Lymhoedema Association of Australia, their are six things every lymphedema patient should prepare for before traveling.

1. Check with your doctor that you have enough prescription drugs (if you need them) to see you through your vacation. Get them filled by a pharmacist before you leave, and be sure to take your prescription with you in case of a mishap.

2. Buy a top quality sunburn cream SPF 20-30+. Because you can get a sunburn through a compression garment. Also take moisturizing lotion and body wash - mineral-oil based (not soap).

3. Travel Insurance that covers health as well as luggage. You may have to state that you have a pre-existing condition to claim payment if you need treatment. This may need to be signed by your doctor.

4. Buy some insect repellent, and take something to treat stings if you get them.

5. Pack some antifungal powder and use it, especially between the toes! This may only be a way to prevent an infection. Hotel bathrooms, pool areas and warm moist climates can sometimes lead to the onset of Athletes foot. This can easily be transferred to the groin or under the breast fold areas, especially when lymphedema is present. Apart from inflammation, it also causes breakdown of the skin so that bacterial entry is facilitated, which can lead to bacterial infections. This powder may also have to be placed in your shoes especially if you are wearing sneakers or boots.

6. If you need vaccinations, do not have them in the affected limb. You might get a reaction to this, so have them at intervals if possible, if you need more than one.

Taking these precautions should help you have a safe traveling experience, but as always consult your physician before doing any kind of treatment.

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